Rookie Dalph Panopio Secures Victory for Blackwater in Preseason Thriller Against Meralco

In a gripping preseason matchup at the Meralco Gym in Ortigas, rookie guard Dalph Panopio delivered crucial plays to steer Blackwater to a 95-93 victory over Meralco on Wednesday.

Trailing in the final moments, Panopio, the third overall pick in this year’s PBA Draft, made a decisive drive to the basket, scoring a go-ahead layup with just three seconds remaining. He then cemented the win by blocking Chris Banchero’s last-second attempt, concluding an impressive breakout performance.

Panopio’s resurgence came after a challenging outing in Blackwater’s 96-77 loss to Converge earlier in the week. However, head coach Jeffrey Cariaso remains optimistic about the rookie’s development.

"This is why we play these games—to help them settle in and get comfortable," Cariaso explained. "By the time the season opens, I’m confident he’ll be mentally sharp and more relaxed."

The win provided a morale boost for Blackwater as they prepare for the PBA’s 50th season, with Panopio exhibiting remarkable composure in crucial moments.

On the other side, Meralco suffered its second preseason loss despite recently edging Rain or Shine 95-89 in Ilagan, Isabela. Prior to that, the Bolts had fallen 109-103 to Converge in a high-scoring contest. The team continues to grapple with key guard Chris Newsome’s injury, requiring adjustments to their lineup during the preseason stretch.